Scripture contains many references to angels, sometimes simply as "the angel of the Lord", sometimes with a given name. Even when a name is given, we must still think of the angel as "the angel of the Lord."

Angels are pictured in today's first reading as ministering to God. But the Scriptures frequently show them ministering to men and women, for angels basically represent an embodiment of God's intimate and personal providence for us. On another day we celebrate that providence in the feast of the Guardian Angels. Today we celebrate three archangels mentioned by name in Scripture, who have played significant roles in God's dealing with humanity.

Each name contains a message, a part of the overall presentation of the Good News. Michael ("Who is like God") protects the Church, especially against the attacks of Satan. Gabriel ("God is strong") is an interpreter for Daniel, and the Angel of the Annunciation. Raphael ("God heals") is the healer of all the injuries and illness of humanity and defends us from the attacks of injurious demons.